The Groundtruth from a combat veteran, backed up by independent research and historical study. Information beneficial to the Troops. And a touch of objective politics, as it relates to the subjects at hand.

This site is unabashedly Pro-American and Pro-Military however none of the views expressed here are to be considered as endorsed, proposed, or supported by the Department of Defense or any other Agency, government, public, or private. http://waronterrornews.typepad.com/

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Shadow of the Sword

SSgt Workman is featured in the Hall of Heroes and a book review on this from Marine Till Death that read it as it was written: http://waronterrornews.typepad.com/home/2008/12/shadow-of-the-sword-by-jeremiah-workman-w-john-bruning.html

http://waronterrornews.typepad.com/home/2008/12/ssgt-jeremiah-workman-navy-cross-usmc-iraq-marion-oh.html and links to prior articles.

The leader is accused of obtaining improvised explosive devices and various other weapons and distributing them to multiple insurgent commanders. He has also allegedly led a number of fighters in attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

In other International Security Assistance Force news throughout Afghanistan:

South

During an operation in Shah Wali Kot district, Kandahar province today, an Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban leader with significant experience constructing IEDs, and detained one other insurgent. The leader is believed to be responsible for multiple insurgent operations, including IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces throughout northern Kandahar.

An Afghan and coalition security force detained several insurgents during an operation in search of a senior Taliban leader in Nad ‘Ali district, Helmand province, today. The leader was allegedly plotting a campaign of sustained military attacks against Afghan and coalition forces in Helmand province. He and his subordinates are believed to have participated in a number of recent attacks utilizing IEDs and small arms fire against Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also seized a pistol, bomb-making materials and narcotics as a result of the operation.

Friday, March 29, 2013

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a serviceman from World War II have been identified and are being returned to his family for burial with full military honors.

Army 1st Lt. John E. Terpning, of Mount Prospect, Ill., will be buried on April 3, in Arlington National Cemetery. On May 7, 1944, Terpning was a pilot of a B-24D Liberator that departed Nadzab, New Guinea on a bombing mission. Due to mechanical troubles, the B-24D was delayed in departing the airbase and was unable to join the formation after takeoff. The aircraft, Terpning, nor the nine other crewmen aboard the plane were seen after takeoff. In 1946, the War Department declared all ten men to be presumed dead.

In 1973, a Papua New Guinea Forest Department official reported a wartime aircraft in the mountains northeast of the city of Lae. In October 1973, a team of Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) responded to the report and visited the site, where they found aircraft wreckage that corresponded to that of a B-24D. At that time the RAAF recovered possible human remains, which were transferred to the U.S. Army Mortuary in Tachikawa, Japan; however, given the limited technology at the time, no human remains were individually identified. In 1974, the remains were buried as a group at Arlington National Cemetery.

In April 2008, a Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command (JPAC) team was sent to investigate and survey the crash site. The team recovered aircraft wreckage, including a radio call sign data plate that matched the aircraft, from a B-24D and additional remains.

To identify the remains, scientists from JPAC and the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory used circumstantial evidence and forensic identification tools such as dental comparisons and mitochondrial DNA, which matched Terpning's brother.

At the end of World War II, the U.S. government was unable to recover and identify approximately 79,000 Americans. Today, more than 73,000 are unaccounted-for from the conflict.

I don't always agree with Jon Stewart, but I do think he's funny, even when I disagree, and I respect him for his intellectual honesty. He's not a blind supporter of his party. He does call them out when they're wrong, at least when they're wrong according to how he sees things.

KABUL, Afghanistan (March 29, 2013) – During an operation in Nahr-e Saraj, Helmand today, an Afghan and coalition security force arrested a senior Taliban leader and detained one other insurgent.

The leader is believed to exercise operational control over multiple insurgent cells throughout Helmand province, committing multiple attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He is also believed to be heavily involved in the acquisition and distribution of weapons to insurgent forces, and reportedly owns multiple poppy farms used in the production of illegal narcotics.

In other International Security Assistance Force news throughout Afghanistan:

North

Afghan and coalition security forces killed numerous insurgents during an operation in search of a Taliban leader in Chimtal district, Balkh province, Thursday. The leader is allegedly the second highest Taliban official in Chimtal district, responsible for directing multiple attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He is also believed to be the district’s chief financier for the insurgency, funneling money to fighters for use in illegal arms purchases. The security force also seized six motorcycles, two rocket propelled grenade launchers with 12 rounds, multiple light machine guns and four drums of ammunition.

South

During an operation in search of a Taliban leader in Dand district, Kandahar province today, an Afghan and coalition security force detained two insurgents. The leader has command and control responsibilities over a number of fighters dedicated to attacking Afghan and coalition forces. He also has extensive experience with improvised explosive device operations, and plays a role in weapon transportation and distribution throughout Kandahar province.

East

An Afghan and coalition security force killed an insurgent during an operation in search of a Haqqani leader in Sabari district, Khost province, Thursday. The Haqqani leader is responsible for acquiring and distributing weapons to his fellow insurgents and has personally led his subordinates in multiple rocket-propelled grenade attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

If you ever find yourself in San Francisco, I recommend staying at the Marines Memorial Association hotel there, or as I referred to it, the Veterans Consulate. It is located in the high rent district, downtown, and about as close to everything as you can get. You'll want to buy a membership in the Association first, $35 for active military, $150 for Veterans. You'll save that much on a 2 day stay. They give deep discounts to members, making it, by far the most cost efficient place to stay there.

And if you have a little flexibility in your scheduling, take a look at theirs. In May, General Allen and Major General HR McMasters are both speaking at the hotel, along with several other events which are perks for guests and members. Well known authors are often found speaking at the Hotel.

And the picture is from the hotel library. That's not even half of the books, organized by military subject, and by war. It's the kind of library, I'd love to have in my area.

I do have to caution you though, if you stay at the MMA hotel, you may not want to venture out of it, into the cold concrete jungle of San Francisco and do whatever it was that forced you to go there in the first place. They have a great restaurant, a bar packed with Veterans, and great rooms in the part of town everyone wants to be in.

As a sidenote, they have 20 annual scholarships, and the deadline for applying is 30 April.

If you do find yourself going to San Francisco, be sure to browse the website to see the rest of the facilities of the hotel. And if you go, browse the halls of the various floors, as each is decorated with an enjoyable theme.

On March 29th, 1973, the last US Troops left Viet Nam, officially ending a war that was not considered a war. The official dates of the war to this day are not the same as the dates that the war was fought. The war began under Dwight Eisenhower and expanded under JFK.

The perception, falsely, remains that Our Troops lost. They did not. The politicians gave up, in the face of protests, initiated by our Cold War enemy. The politicians had tried to play General, hamstrung Our Troops, and failed to take the fight to the enemy for years before that.

The iconic images of the end of the war were taken 2 years later, on March April 30th, 1975, when the US Embassy in Saigon was evacuated, as Saigon fell to the Communist North. Some, many, will say that because we had US Marines at the Embassy, the war continued. Every Embassy has Marines. Their role is to protect the US soil of the Embassy, and more practically, particularly in situations like this, the US Citizens that work in the Embassy. Our Marines, on March April 30th, 1975 performed valiantly, saving as many lives as humanly and physically possible, but it was the South Vietnamese government, not the US Military that fell that day.

Our Troops fought Valorously and Honorably in Viet Nam. They did what was asked of them, and won the battles they fought. Our Nation still owes the Veterans of Viet Nam, primarily because Our Citizens maligned them, ignored them, and abused them for so long.

On this day, and every day that a Viet Nam War Veteran reveals himself, please Welcome him Home, and thank him for doing a difficult, and thankless job.

In the video above, Sergeant Major Max Beilke, US Army is shown in CBS footage. He was the last to leave Viet Nam, and became one of the first to fall in the War On Terrorism. He was killed in the Pentagon, on 9/11/2001, still serving his Nation and fellow Veterans, as a civilian.

"He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare) Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten.

"They were kidnapped and taken by force. Their only sin is their service for their country and the service to the people of this country, to bring peace and stability," he said. "Their only sin is to fighting against the enemies of this country and providing a better lifestyle for their countrymen."

The operation, executed in the Baraki Barak district of Logar province by the 2nd Commando Kandak, 203rd Thunder Corps and 3rd Tolai, 6th Commando Kandak, Commando Division Headquarters, resulted in 23 insurgent casualties and the recovery of the two kidnapped soldiers.

The raid also resulted in the capture of two caches containing three PKM machine guns, Dishka heavy machine gun parts, AK-47's, one anti-tank mine and numerous rocket propelled grenade rounds and tactical vests.

"The 203rd Corps will assure everyone in any part of the country that our Commando brothers are besides them, behind them, in front of them," said Col. Gulan Nabi Qatae, commander of the 2nd Commando Kandak, 203rd Thunder Corps.

Yaftali presented four sheep to the commandos in appreciation for their hard work. "Our countrymen have hopeful eyes towards your green uniforms, you are a matter of pride, you are a symbol of unity, strength and power in this country," he said.

Sadat exercised operational control over a group of fighters responsible for conducting multiple attacks on Afghan and coalition forces throughout Helmand province. In addition, he procured weapons for Taliban fighters and coordinated the emplacement of improvised explosive devices.

Ghazni ProvinceAfghan National Security Forces detained one suspected insurgent during operations in the Gelan District. The suspected insurgent was taken to a base for questioning.

Logar ProvinceAfghan National Security Forces found and safely cleared an IED during operations in the Pul-E-Alam District.

Afghan National Security Forces detained seven suspected insurgents during operations in the Pul-E-Alam District. The suspected insurgents were taken to a base for questioning

Paktika ProvinceAfghan National Security Forces captured five suspected insurgents during operations in the Giyan District. The suspected insurgents were taken to a base for questioning.

Afghan National Security Forces discovered three weapons cache sites during operations in the Lajah Ahmadkhel District. The cache sites consisted of five rocket tubes, four hand grenades, a small-arms rifle and multiple IED making materials.

Afghan National Security Forces detained two suspected insurgents during operations in the Lajah Ahmadkhel District. The suspected insurgents were taken to a base for questioning.

Afghan National Security Forces detained four suspected insurgents during operations in the Zerok District. The suspected insurgents were taken to a base for questioning.

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

Of all the MOS's (jobs) in the military, the one I hold in greatest respect is probably an 18D, Special Forces Medic. Those that graduate the SF Medic's course are capable of amazing feats of life saving trauma treatment. As (more than) one person has described the role of the SF Medic:

"They can kill you and then save your life."

They don't wear the medic red cross, because theirs is a combat mission, with the job of keeping everybody alive and healthy. On the range, you probably wouldn't know the difference between the 18D and his teammates, and ODA's (Operational Detachment Alpha) are the epitome of a team. The things they can do aren't a matter of just physical brawn. It's intelligence, common sense, hard work, constant practice, dedication beyond perfection, but above and beyond all is teamwork.

So, it does not surprise me to find that team 7125, formerly known as 725, has adopted SGT Padgett's family as their own, or that they are going the extra 4.4 miles in Honor of him, and in support of the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.

I have rarely mentioned SOWF, but it is one of the most efficient Non-Profits in the Pro-Troop arena. It specializes in ensuring that the children of fallen Special Operations Troops get a college education. Funds donated to it make it to that cause at a percentage unprecedented in the Non-Profit world. In short, they are good stewards of financial donations.

Though the team is currently deployed to Afghanistan, they are training and have a goal of being 1st and raising $10,000, in the 4.4 mile run at Eglin AFB in May. They're running treadmills at a pace of 5:50 minute miles, which is frankly unreal to me, for an individual, much less a team. And they plan to cut that time down before the race, and when they aren't in the middle of place where people are shooting at them.

In fact, it wasn't the team itself that contacted me about this, but the brother of a team member, because their duties still come first, defending America, in a far off land that has taken a Brother from them.

The leader is accused of ordering assassinations against members of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, coordinating the movement of weapons and supplies used in insurgent operations, and leading attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

In other International Security Assistance Force news throughout Afghanistan:

North

During an operation in Kunduz district, Kunduz province yesterday, an Afghan and coalition security force arrested an Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan leader. The leader is alleged to lead a cell of insurgent fighters responsible for improvised explosive device and direct fire attacks on Afghan and coalition forces. Prior to his arrest, he was believed actively planning to assassinate an Afghan National Security Forces official.

South

An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban facilitator and detained a number of other insurgents during an operation in Nad ‘Ali district, Helmand province, today. The facilitator is believed to be responsible for procuring and distributing weapons to his fellow fighters to include IEDs and IED-making materials.

East

BAGRAM, Afghanistan (March 26, 2013) - Afghan and coalition forces found and safely cleared three improvised explosive devices, killed one insurgent and detained two suspected insurgents during operations in eastern Afghanistan throughout the past 24 hours, March 25.

Ghazni ProvinceAfghan and coalition forces detained two suspected insurgent during operations in the Ab Band District. The suspected insurgents were taken to a base for questioning.

Afghan National Security Forces found and safely cleared two IEDs during operations in the Gelan District.

Kunar ProvinceAfghan and coalition forces killed one insurgent during operations in the Marawarah District.

Nangarhar ProvinceAfghan National Security Forces found and safely cleared an IED during operations in the Chaparhar District.

In other International Security Assistance Force news throughout Afghanistan:

South

Afghan and coalition security forces confirmed today the death of Taliban leader, Gul Ahmad Akhund, during an operation in Nad ‘Ali district, Helmand province, March 17. Akhund had operational control over a cell of insurgent fighters directly responsible for multiple attacks targeting Afghan and coalition forces throughout Helmand province. He was instrumental in acquiring and distributing weapons and ammunition to his fighters.

BAGRAM, Afghanistan (March 25, 2013) - Afghan and coalition forces found and safely cleared 13 IEDs, killed three insurgents and detained one suspected insurgent during operations in eastern Afghanistan throughout the past 24 hours, March 24.

Ghazni ProvinceAfghan National Security Forces detained one suspected insurgent during operations in the Dehyak District. The suspected insurgent was taken to a base for questioning.

Afghan National Security Forces found and safely cleared 11 IEDs during operations in the Gelan District.

Laghman ProvinceCoalition forces killed three insurgents during operations in the Mehtar Lam District.

Nangarhar ProvinceAfghan National Security Forces found and safely cleared an IED during operations in the Surkh Rod District.

Wardak ProvinceAfghan National Security Forces found and safely cleared an IED during operations in the Sayyidabad District.

BAGRAM, Afghanistan (March 24, 2013) - Afghan National Security Forces found and safely cleared three IEDs and detained two suspected insurgents during operations in eastern Afghanistan throughout the past 24 hours, March 23.

Ghazni ProvinceAfghan National Security Forces detained two suspected insurgents during operations in the Dehyak District. The suspected insurgents were taken to a base for questioning.

Afghan National Security Forces found and safely cleared two IEDs during operations in the Gelan District.

Laghman ProvinceAfghan National Security Forces found and safely cleared an IED during operations in the Mehtar Lam District.

"He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare) Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten.

Sunday, March 24, 2013

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Sgt. 1st Class James F. Grissom, 31, of Hayward, Calif., died March 21 at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Germany, of wounds suffered from small arms fire March 18 in Paktika Province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne), Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.

"He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare) Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten.

By Cheryl Pellerin, AFPS, JAKARTA, Indonesia, March 21, 2013 - The Defense Department has begun to shift its intellectual and physical weight to the Asia-Pacific to reinforce longstanding military commitments to the region, Deputy Defense Secretary Ash Carter said here yesterday.

Jakarta was the final stop of the deputy defense secretary's weeklong trip to Asia, which included visits to defense and government officials in Japan, South Korea and the Philippines.

Speaking as part of an international panel at the third Jakarta International Defense Dialogue, or JIDD, Carter said the United States is serious about its commitment to the region and detailed elements now in motion of a rebalance called for in the department's 2012 Defense Strategic Guidance.

Despite U.S. spending cuts and ongoing budget debates in Congress, the deputy defense secretary said, DOD is using whatever flexibility it has in managing its budget to favor and protect the rebalance.

"The rebalance will continue and in fact gain momentum for two reasons. First, U.S. interests here are enduring and so also will be its political and economic presence," Carter told an audience of nearly 1,500 defense, government and security officials from around the world.

"This presence is accompanied by values -- democracy, freedom, human rights, civilian control of the military, and respect for the sovereignty of nations -- that America has long stood for and that human beings welcome and I think relate to," he added, "So our interest in the region will be both believed and reciprocated."

Former Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta and President Barack Obama have made recent visits to the region, he said, as have former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and National Security Adviser Tom Donilon.

Secretary of State John Kerry will make his first trip here next month, Carter said, " ... and Secretary [Chuck] Hagel, who as a senator led the first U.S. congressional delegation to the Shangri-La Dialogue, is staunchly committed to this region as well, [and] will be attending Shangri-La."

Carter said each U.S. leader visiting the region, in his or her own way, emphasized the central importance of the Asia-Pacific region to the United States, "and our commitment to making sure that this region remains safe, secure and prosperous."

He said the rebalance means that a higher proportion of defense assets will move to the region.

"Secretary Panetta announced last year that 60 percent of our naval assets will be assigned to the Asia-Pacific region by 2020," Carter noted, "a substantial and historical shift."

The Air Force, he noted, will increase its presence in the region with tactical aircraft like the F-22 stealth fighter; space, cyber and bomber forces; and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets like the MQ-9 Reaper, the U-2 reconnaissance aircraft; and the Global Hawk high-altitude unmanned reconnaissance aircraft.

"We will be able to leverage more capacity from our ground forces, including the Army, Marines and special operations forces, now that they are coming home to the Pacific from Iraq and Afghanistan," Carter said, adding, "Also we are modernizing and enhancing our forward presence across the region in cooperation with our allies and partners."

Beginning with Northeast Asia, Carter said DOD is modernizing and updating alliances with Japan and South Korea.

"In Japan we've added aviation capability, we are in the process of realigning the Marine Corps presence in Okinawa, and we are upgrading our missile defense posture," he told the audience. The department is also working to revise defense guidelines there to meet 21st century challenges, he said.

On the Korean Peninsula, DOD is implementing the Strategic Alliance 2015 agreement and taking steps to advance the alliance's military capabilities to meet the North Korean threat.

Under the SA 2015 roadmap, wartime operational control of Korean forces will transition from the U.S.-ROK Combined Forces Command to the ROK Joint Chiefs of Staff in December 2015, according to a January statement by U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Sung Kim.

U.S. Forces Korea will become the U.S. Korea Command, or Korcom, and provide manpower for a supporting relationship with the ROK Joint Chiefs of Staff. The United States will continue to back the defense of the Republic of Korea with the full might of the U.S. military, Kim added.

The Defense Department also is enhancing its presence in Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean region, Carter said.

"We are not only rebalancing to the Asia-Pacific but also within the Asia-Pacific, in recognition of the growing importance of Southeast Asia to the region as a whole [and] emphasizing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, capacity building and multilateral exercises," the deputy secretary added.

In Australia last year, the initial company of Marines rotated through Darwin in the first step toward using this presence to engage in bilateral and multilateral exercises with regional partners.

In the Philippines, the department is working to enhance the capacity of the Philippines Armed Forces and increase DOD rotational presence and partnerships with that key treaty ally, Carter explained.

In Singapore, the first of four littoral combat ships will arrive early next month, providing a key capability to work bilaterally and multilaterally with partners in the region, he added.

"Next, while we will preserve and integrate the counter-insurgency capabilities that we have worked so hard to develop over the last decade in Iraq and Afghanistan," Carter said, "we are giving priority in our ... budget to development platforms and capabilities that have direct applicability and use in this region."

Such investments include the Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarine, the fifth-generation Joint Strike Fighter, the P-8 maritime patrol aircraft, the Broad Area Maritime Sensor, a new stealth bomber, the KC-46 tanker replacement, cruise missiles and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms, the deputy secretary said.

"We are also protecting our investments in future-focused capabilities that are so important to this region," he added, "such as cyber, science and technology investments, and space."

DOD is also investing in its people, Carter said, in language and cultural skills and regional and strategic affairs to ensure that the department can cultivate the intellectual capital that will be required to make good the rebalance.

The United States is also making critical investments in training ranges and bases such as Guam, which the department is developing as a strategic hub for the Western Pacific, he said.

"Fourth, finally and most importantly," the deputy secretary noted, "we are revitalizing and expanding our partnerships across the region. That's the key. I've mentioned the work we are doing with Japan, Korea, Australia, Singapore and the Philippines, but we're doing many other things in other parts of the region as well."

- Last November DOD worked with treaty ally Thailand to update the U.S.-Thailand Joint Vision Statement for the first time in 50 years.

- With New Zealand, signing the Washington Declaration and related policy changes opened new avenues for defense cooperation in maritime security cooperation, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and peacekeeping support.

- In Burma DOD has resumed limited military-to-military relations and is working to ensure that the Burmese military supports Burma's ongoing reforms.

- With the Vietnamese, through a new memorandum of understanding, DOD is expanding cooperation in maritime security, search and rescue, peacekeeping, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

- In Malaysia and Indonesia, the department is working to build partner capacity and conduct maritime security and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

China and India also are a critical part of the rebalance to the Asia-Pacific, Carter said.

DOD has invited China to participate in the U.S.-hosted RIMPAC exercise, the world's largest multinational maritime exercise, involving 22 nations during its most recent iteration in 2012.

"We are delighted to have their participation in what will be a strengthening and growing military-to-military relationship with China, which matches and follows our growing political and economic relationship with China," the deputy secretary said.

Carter called India "a key part of our rebalance and, more broadly, an emerging power that we believe will help determine the broader security and prosperity of the 21st century."

U.S. security interests with India converge on maritime security and broader regional issues, he said, "including India's 'Look East' policy, an attempt to forge closer and deeper economic integration with its eastern neighbors.

With India, Carter said, the department is also working to deepen defense cooperation, moving beyond defense trade to technology sharing and coproduction.

Multilaterally, he added, the department recognizes the importance of strengthening regional institutions like the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN, which plays what the deputy secretary called "an indispensable role in maintaining regional stability and resolving disputes through diplomacy."

The United States can and will succeed in rebalancing to the Asia-Pacific in the years to come, Carter told the audience.

"As we succeed in this," he added, "we look forward to doing it with all of you represented in this room."

Friday, March 22, 2013

The Army released suicide data today for the month of February 2013. During February, among active-duty soldiers, there were 11 potential suicides: three have been confirmed as suicides and eight remain under investigation. For January 2013, the Army reported 19 potential suicides among active-duty soldiers; however, subsequent to the report, another case was added bringing January's total to 20: seven have been confirmed as suicides and 13 are under investigation. For CY 2013, there have been 31 potential active-duty suicides: 10 have been confirmed as suicides and 21 remain under investigation. Updated active-duty suicide numbers for CY 2012: 183 (156 have been confirmed as suicides and 27 remain under investigation).

During February, among reserve component soldiers who were not on active duty, there were 13 potential suicides (eight Army National Guard and five Army Reserve): four have been confirmed and nine are still under investigation. For January 2013, among that same group, the Army reported 14 potential suicides; nine have been confirmed and five cases remain under investigation. For CY 2013, there have been 27 potential not on active duty suicides (14 Army National Guard and 13 Army Reserve): 13 have been confirmed as suicides and 14 remain under investigation. Updated not on active duty suicide numbers for CY 2012: 140 (93 Army National Guard and 47 Army Reserve); 136 have been confirmed as suicides and four remain under investigation.

Soldiers and families in need of crisis assistance can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Trained consultants are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year and can be contacted by dialing 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or by visiting their website at http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org .

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

BAGRAM, Afghanistan (March 20, 2013) - Afghan and coalition forces found and safely cleared five improvised explosive devices, detained three suspected insurgents and discovered one weapons cache during operations in eastern Afghanistan throughout the past 24 hours, March 19.

Khowst ProvinceAfghan and coalition forces discovered a weapons cache during operations in the Khowst District. The cache contained two grenades, small-arms rifle ammunition and four rocket-propelled grenade rounds.

Afghan and coalition forces detained three suspected insurgents during operations in the Khowst District. The suspected insurgents were taken to a base for questioning.

Afghan and coalition forces found and safely cleared an IED during operations in the Sabari District.

Nangarhar ProvinceAfghan and coalition forces found and safely cleared two IEDs during operations in the Bati Kot District.

Afghan Uniform Police found and safely cleared an IED during operations in the Khugyani District.

Paktika ProvinceAfghan National Security Forces found and safely cleared an IED during operations in the Sharan District.

Satar was directly involved in the coordination of improvised explosive device-making materials, weapons, supplies and fighters in order to prepare for the upcoming spring fighting season. He also participated in IED and direct-fire attacks targeting the Afghan Local Police in Kandahar province.

In other International Security Assistance Force news throughout Afghanistan:

North

During an operation in Kunduz District, Kunduz province yesterday, an Afghan and coalition security force arrested an Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan leader. The leader is believed to have coordinated multiple attacks against Afghan and coalition forces, and has served a vital role in the facilitation of weapons to extremist fighters.

South

An Afghan and coalition security force killed one insurgent during an operation in Nad 'Ali district, Helmand province, yesterday. During the operation, the security force observed the militant engaging in insurgent activity and engaged, killing him.

During an operation in search of a Taliban leader in Panjwa'i District, Kandahar province today, an Afghan and coalition security force detained a number of insurgents. The Taliban leader is suspected of being the deputy commander of a cell of fighters in Panjwa'i District. His organization has been involved in kidnappings, IED operations, and direct fire attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

Afghan and coalition forces confirmed today the arrest of a Taliban leader in Panjwa'i district, Kandahar province, yesterday. The leader is accused of being in charge of a large cell of insurgent fighters known for conducting attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. His cell of fighters have planned and executed ambushes, small-arms assaults, and IED operations. During the operation, the Afghan and coalition security force also detained a number of other insurgents.

Monday, March 18, 2013

KABUL, Afghanistan (March 16, 2013) - Sister Fortunata from Rwanda, Sister Mary Bette from the Philippines, Sister Alberta from Bangladesh, Sister Suzel from India and Sister Judy Clarisse from Kenya. These are the names of the nuns of Mother Teresa of Calcutta who have been working in Kabul since 2004 to support sub-normal children and about 280 families in extreme poverty. The total number of people benefiting from their help reaches about 1800 persons.

Local citizens in Kabul call them the "nuge" meaning "the angels of heaven" that look after the abandoned, the least important, the poorest. With their constant and humble work the sisters have become an integral part of the local population.

We arrive at their location early in the morning, the temperature is close to zero but the sun is promising. Their place is in the center of Kabul, in a block along a semi-paved road, with stalls full of things on both sides. Sister Fortunata greets us at the door with a beautiful smile, she invites us to enter and introduces us to the sisters.

It’s a two-story house with very small rooms. Some quarters are cold because the nuns heat them only when needed, to save gas. Near the entrance there is a slightly larger room where the sisters gather the children to tell them about our visit. There are some toys and pillows on the ground to create make the environment a little more comfortable.

"These are our children," said Fortunata. "We do not know who their families are. They were found on the streets and brought to us." She is referring to 8 children with a history of abuses and violence in their young lives. With an IQ below 50 they are completely dependent on the loving care of Sister Fortunata and the others.

As if taking care of the kids was not enough, every 15 days the sisters pay a visit to some local families, bringing a food pack consisting of rice, flour, sugar, beans, tea and oil for each. If the family has more than 5 members the amount doubles.

We continue our visit upstairs. There’s a sleeping area, a small kitchen and a room-warehouse where the nuns are storing the materials they receive and eventually distribute to those in need. The beds are made of wood and some have additional protection to prevent children from falling off or getting hurt. It is not easy to get new bedding and many have been modified to accommodate the growth of children. "We can do what we do thanks to the generosity of public and private institutions and to the funds that we receive from the Order of Mother Teresa in Rome," said Fortunata. In the storage-room there are a few boxes of used clothes, paper towels, slippers, shoes and little else. "We need whatever people can give us," says sister Fortunata, "clothes, diapers, cleaning supplies and for personal hygiene, food and, of course, money. Nothing is superfluous and everything is important to bring some relief to those in need."

Even the Italian soldiers that have spent their tour of duty in Kabul have become aware of the importance of these "women of God", and contingent after contingent have donated something to the Angels of Kabul. The Soldiers know that through the nuns they can help the most suffering part of the Afghan population.

The clock shows we have been visiting for half-hour. We do not want to intrude further and head towards the stairs to exit. When we reach the ground floor some of the children who have grown accustomed to our presence wave us good-bye. Before exiting their premises we noted that outside there is a swing, the only available entertainment.

Sister Fortunata and the others thank us for visiting and invite us to come back soon. We leave with watery eyes and feel a little richer inside.

"He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare) Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten.

"He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare) Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten.

Saturday, March 16, 2013

Since you are reading War on Terror News, I have to believe
that you are concerned with what is happening with our deployed men and woman;
so am I.

I am a semi-retired personal trainer who has spent most of
my 48 years on earth in some form of athletics. From wrestling to football,
baseball, running and triathlon, I have pretty much done it all. In fact, I
even taught kung fu and tai chi for twenty years. Like most people involved in
athletics, I looked up to many sports figures over the years and some I even
tried to emulate in my training. Today, I cannot watch sports; I didn’t even
watch the last Super Bowl –American Blasphemy!

My son, while at Camp Pendleton, sent me a picture of Sgt
Major Brad Kasal and told me a little bit
about his story; that he was shot
seven times by an AK-47, covered a fellow Marine to protect him from a grenade
-taking 40+pieces of shrapnel, and losing 60% of his blood. He went on to
explain that this genuine hero was seen on many occasions, serving food to the
men in the chow hall!

This story coupled with the stories my son told of his own
training, first in Marine Infantry School and later in BRC (Basic Reconnaissance
Course), that what I had previously viewed as heroes, as high caliber athletes,
wasn’t even close. I also realized that it was nearly impossible to know real
heroes because American media is focused on sports figures and worse;
Hollywood.

It’s not popular (yet) but I have started a Facebook page
entitled American Hero Underground. The way I see it, if the media refuses to
give the attention our military heroes deserve, then what is needed is an “underground”
movement and I feel there is no better place to do that than one with over 800
million users. My hope is that you will join me in celebrating the achievements
of America’s true heroes by visiting the page, “Liking” it if you are a
Facebook user, “Sharing” it so that more people learn about it, and finally, to
contribute stories to it, because one person simply cannot highlight all the
heroes that deserve to be known.

BAGRAM, Afghanistan (March 16, 2013) - Afghan and coalition forces found and safely cleared one improvised explosive device and and discovered two weapons caches during operations in eastern Afghanistan throughout the past 24 hours, March 15.

Ghazni ProvinceAfghan and coalition forces found and safely cleared an IED during operations in the Gelan District.

Afghan and coalition forces discovered a weapons cache during operations in the Dehyak District. The cache consisted of 10 bags of homemade explosives, a rocket-propelled grenade launcher and 11 RPG rounds.

Khowst ProvinceAfghan and coalition forces discovered a weapons cache during operations in the Shamal District. The cache consisted of multiple IED making materials and land mine components.

KABUL, Afghanistan (March 15, 2013) - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban facilitator and detained one other insurgent during an operation in Kandahar district, Kandahar province, March 14.

The facilitator is accused of acquiring and distributing lethal aid to fighters in Kandahar and Uruzgan provinces. In the past, he has also provided grenades, ammunition, home-made explosive material and improvised explosive devices for use in attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

In other International Security Assistance Force news throughoutAfghanistan:

An Afghan and coalition security force detained a number of insurgents during an operation in search of a senior Haqqani leader in Manduzai district, Khost province, March 14. The Haqqani leader has been fighting against Afghan and coalition forces for nearly five years. He has more than 200 insurgents under his command, and has directed them to attack Afghan and coalition forces in multiple provinces throughout Afghanistan, including Khost, Paktiya and Paktika. The Haqqani leader also has experience working in terrorist training camps and guiding and equipping extremist fighters in order to conduct operations against the Afghan people and government.

An Afghan and coalition force killed a number of insurgents during two security operations in Andar district, Ghazni province, March 14. The security force positively identified the militants engaged in insurgent activity and engaged the insurgents, killing them.

Friday, March 15, 2013

BAGRAM, Afghanistan (March 15, 2013) - Afghan and coalition forces found and safely cleared two improvised explosive devices and killed one insurgent during operations in eastern Afghanistan throughout the past 24 hours, March 14.

Ghazni ProvinceAfghan and coalition forces found and safely cleared an IED during operations in the Gelan District.

Khowst ProvinceAfghan and coalition forces found and safely cleared an IED during operations in the Gurbuz District.

Paktika ProvinceAfghan National Security Forces killed one insurgent during operations in the Terwo District.

WASHINGTON, March 14, 2013 - An Iranian military jet tried to intercept an unarmed American MQ-1 remotely piloted aircraft over international waters March 12 but it was discouraged from accomplishing that mission, Pentagon officials said today.

The MQ-1 aircraft was conducting a routine classified surveillance flight over international waters in the Arabian Gulf.

Iran sent an F-4 Phantom 2 jet to intercept the unmanned aircraft. "The closest point of approach between these aircraft was approximately 16 miles," Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said in a written statement.

Two U.S. military aircraft were escorting the Predator, and the Iranian plane broke off pursuit after a verbal warning.

"All U.S. aircraft remained over international waters at all times," Little said.

In November, Iranian aircraft fired on an American remotely piloted aircraft operating over the Arabian Sea. The Iranian aircraft fired two missiles at the drone and missed. After that incident, the U.S. government informed the Iranian government that its behavior was unacceptable. Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said at the time that the U.S. military will continue to fly these missions and will protect its aircraft.

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Spc. David T. Proctor, 26, of Greensboro, N.C., died March 13, at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Md., from injuries sustained during a non-combat incident on March 3, in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 1st Armor Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

"He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare) Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten.

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Chief Petty Officer Christian Michael Pike, 31, of Peoria, Ariz., died March 13 in Landstuhl, Germany, as a result of combat-related injuries sustained on March 10 while conducting stability operations in Maiwand District, Afghanistan. Pike was assigned to a West Coast-based Naval Special Warfare unit.

"He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare) Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten.

Ghazni ProvinceAfghan and coalition forces found and safely cleared an IED during operations in the Dehyak District.

Khowst ProvinceAfghan and coalition forces found and safely cleared two IEDs during operations in the Shamal District.

Afghan and coalition forces discovered a weapons cache during operations in the Khowst District. The cache consisted of multiple IED making materials, one rocket-propelled grenade and a recoilless rifle.

Paktika ProvinceAfghan National Security Forces found and safely cleared two IEDs during operations in the Bermal District.

Afghan and coalition forces found and safely cleared an IED during operations in the Dzadran District.

Nangarhar ProvinceAfghan National Security Forces found and safely cleared two IEDs during operations in Kot District.

"He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother.” (W.Shakespeare) Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten.

The Department of Defense announced today recruiting and retention statistics for the active and reserve components for fiscal 2013, through January.

Active Component.

Recruiting. All four active services met or exceeded their numerical accession goals for fiscal 2013, through October.

Army – 20,273 accessions, with a goal of 20,175; 100 percent

Navy – 10,990 accessions, with a goal of 10,990; 100 percent

Marine Corps – 9,244 accessions, with a goal of 9,230; 100 percent

Air Force – 9,589 accessions, with a goal of 9,589; 100 percent

Retention. The Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps exhibited strong retention numbers for the fourth month of fiscal 2013. The Navy exhibited strong retention numbers in the mid-career and career categories. However, the Navy's achievement of 86 percent in the initial category is a result of the transition from a downsizing to a stabilizing posture.

Reserve Component.

Recruiting. Five of the six reserve components met or exceeded their fiscal-year-to-date 2013 numerical accession goals. The Army Reserve finished January 1,034 accessions short of its goal.

Army National Guard – 17,100 accessions, with a goal of 16,314; 105 percent

Afghanistan

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Ace Of Spades: Why Language MattersIn this article, Ace of Spades demonstrates how the writing style of "journalists" and other writers is purposely used to influence the electorate. He explains this far better than I have been able to do, but this is the foundation of why I could no longer be silent.